Here we are in the midst of this national crisis where life has come to a screeching halt. We are all aware of the unprecedented hardships at this time: Concern for the health and well being of ourselves and others, job loss, safe at home orders and al that goes with it, fears about the economy, how long this will last and on and on.  

Let’s look at what else is happening here: There is a deep concern for others, including strangers.  Priorities are being rearranged.  Money has never seemed so vital and yet so unimportant at the same time as our concern for others is at the forefront.  Relationships are healing or ending as needed.  We are reconnecting to ourselves and each other.  

A deep awakening is happening. This is the part where you find out who you are.

“People need to know that they have all the tools within themselves. Self-awareness, which means awareness of their body, awareness of their mental space, awareness of their relationships – not only with each other, but with life and the ecosystem.” Deepak Chopra

And with this new sense of self-awareness, change will happen. Change is already happening. Life will be different for all of us now.  That that can be ok.  Self-awareness is the key to navigating it. 

“Awareness is the greatest agent for change.” Eckhart Tolle

And this crisis, this pause, is creating the space for us to do this.  

“Not until we are lost do we begin to understand ourselves.” Henry David Thoreau

So what does this look like? Some things you can do to become more self-aware: Pay attention to your thoughts, feelings, what is going on in your body, your disposition, your relationships, your life. Journal these things.  Be careful not to judge. This is not about putting a value judgment on yourself. This is about neutral awareness. Being an observer for now.

Use this information to assess what is an old pattern or belief, what is not serving you in your life. Get real and get honest.

Use this time to search your heart and your soul on what truly moves you. What is important to you. What matters.

Finally, create a practice to de-stress, release tension, to connect to your heart, your essence, your guides and angels, to Source/God.  Sit quietly daily for 10-20 minutes. Learn to meditate and/or pray.  Set your phone to go off every 2 hours to check in with yourself and take 20 deep breaths and reset your energy. Practice yoga or Tai Chi. Find what works for you and what makes you feel connected and peaceful. Repeat daily!

“Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” Aristotle

And finally…

“And you? When will you begin that long journey into yourself?” Rumi

… Ready, let’s go!